AURORA Lead Service Line Inventory
Aurora provides drinking water to about 183,000 people in Illinois. If you live or work here, you may be wondering whether lead service lines—pipes that connect the water main to homes—are present in your area.
What we know about Aurora's lead service lines
Aurora draws its water from surface sources. As of now, the utility has not publicly reported an inventory count of lead service lines in its system. This does not mean there are no lead lines; rather, a detailed citywide inventory has not yet been completed or made public.
Lead service lines are a real concern in older water systems. Lead can leach into water when it sits in pipes overnight or when water pressure drops. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development. If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, testing is the most reliable way to know your situation.
What you can do right now
Contact Aurora directly. Call or email the utility and ask:
- Whether a lead service line inventory exists (even if not yet public)
- Whether your address has a known lead line
- Whether your water has been tested for lead recently
- What free or low-cost testing options they offer
Many utilities offer free in-home water testing or provide information on certified labs. Some also run replacement programs for lead lines, often with financial assistance for low-income households.
Get your water tested. A simple test can tell you if lead is present at your tap. The EPA recommends testing if your home was built before 1986 or if you have concerns. Your utility can guide you to certified testing labs.
Use interim precautions. While you investigate, you can reduce lead exposure by running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, and using cold water only for drinking and cooking (hot water can contain more lead). These steps are not substitutes for fixing a lead line, but they help.
Funding for replacements
Federal infrastructure funding has become available in recent years to help utilities replace lead service lines. Ask Aurora whether they have applied for or received grants to fund this work. Homeowners often share the cost, but many programs offer rebates or assistance for income-qualified households.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Aurora's water department to ask about lead service line testing and inventory status
- Request a free or low-cost water test for your home
- If you rent, ask your landlord about the building's water pipes and any history of lead issues
- For health concerns, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Aurora have lead service lines?
Aurora has not publicly reported a complete lead service line inventory. To find out if your home has a lead line, contact Aurora directly and ask them to check your address's service line material.
How do I test my water for lead?
Contact Aurora's water department and ask about free or subsidized testing. You can also contact a certified lab directly. Testing takes a few days and costs $20–50 if you pay out of pocket.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead can harm child development at any level. If you have young children or are pregnant, test your water and talk to your pediatrician. Even if levels are low, replacing lead pipes is the safest long-term solution.
Can Aurora help me replace a lead service line?
Many utilities offer replacement programs or can point you to funding. Ask Aurora about their lead line replacement initiative, cost-sharing programs, and whether you qualify for financial assistance.